Expert Guide: Supporting Your Skin Barrier

2 minute read

We’ve called on our trusted Ultra Experts to provide the tell-tale signs and solutions to support your skin barrier. Our skin is made up of multiple layers. The outermost layer is the stratum corneum which consists of skin cells bound together by lipids to form your skin barrier. Its role is to support the skin’s ability to retain moisture and protect your skin from environmental damage and unwanted substances including pollution and bacteria.

To cut it short; the health of your skin barrier is important - so important that if compromised you may notice flaky rough patches, experience itchiness, extra sensitivity, tightness, or all of the above.

So, who are the culprits? Environmental factors like sun damage or pollution, using harsh beauty products that strip vital hydration from the skin, harsh cleansing products, overusing active ingredients, over-exfoliating, ageing and lack of sleep.

1. Hold off on the actives

The first step to looking after your barrier is to hit pause on any active ingredients for at least 3-4 weeks. These include your AHAs, BHAs, Retinol (Vitamin A) and Ascorbic Acid (VItamin C).

2. Back to basics

Use this time to re-introduce soothing cleansers and nourishing moisturisers that support hydration and comfort. Hint:Ultra Calming Cleanser and Ultra Calming Moisturiser Cream.

3. Resist the need to overdo

Over-exfoliating may have aggravated your skin barrier in the first place. Opt for a gentle, non-stripping formula and limit this step to 1-2 times per week.

4. Ingredients to look out for.

Humectants like Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid) are a must-have for attracting moisture from the deeper layers of the skin to infuse the top layers with moisture and provide lasting hydration. You’ll find this one in Ultra B² Hydrating Serum.